Simulation and experimental validation of resonant electric markers used for medical device tracking in magnetic resonance imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which was traditionally used for patient diagnosis, has gained in importance in minimally invasive interventions in the recent past. Hence, there is an increasing demand for medical devices compatible with the MR environment. One of the challenges is to visualize the medical devices, e.g. catheters, within the MR image. Several methods exist to cope with this task. The approach of this work uses resonant electric circuits as markers visible within the MR image. The markers are fabricated using a sophisticated micro systems technology process. The self-sufficient resonant markers are placed at the tip of 6 F catheters. Different simulations of the resonant marker's magnetic field distribution within the high frequency magnetic field are performed. These simulation results are validated with the findings from our experimental measurements and will be used for the further development and improvement of the resonant electric markers.